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Chris Newsome. PBA PICTURES
MANILA, Philippines—Now healthy and ready to return to Gilas Pilipinas duties, Chris Newsome’s face lit up when asked about the national team’s weekly practice and the prospect of wearing the country’s colors again.
“Always respect, especially when you’re talking about playing the best the country has to offer” he told reporters on Friday night, shortly after Meralco’s 105-87 win over Rain or Shine at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
Newsome wore an even bigger smile when he realized he would now have the opportunity to play alongside Justin Brownlee, who recently acquired Philippine citizenship through naturalization.
“It’s always nice to be friends with someone who’s had a lot of success,” said the dynamic guard.
“Play with them—not against them,” he continued.
Brownlee and Barangay Ginebra have long been the source of torment for Meralco and Newsome in the Governor’s Cup. The beloved, in fact, has denied the Bolts four times in the PBA Finals.
So, the change in setup pleased Newsome.
“JB is in the lineup right now, so I’m very happy to match with him, train with him, learn as much as I can from him,” he said of the 6-time PBA champion who will be key. Gilas’ naturalization slot for the sixth and final window of the Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers this February.
“He’s got a lot of experience and he’s one of the best import players I’ve had. I’m just going to be a sponge and try to absorb as much information and knowledge from JB as I can,” added Newsome.
Newsome is a member of the National Five that featured Jordan Clarkson and defended his turf in the fifth window last September.
That aspiration could become a reality if he makes the final roster to take on Lebanon and Jordan.
“When we’re on the field, you’re always going to compete. But when you’re friends, you look forward to it more,” he said of working with his beloved Ginebra import.
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